Fungal Nail Infections

Prevent Another Nail Infection

  • Wear flip flops or shower sandals when walking in warm, moist areas like gyms, locker rooms, spas, public showers, and pools.
  • If you just finished treating nail fungus, throw away shoes, boots, skates, and other footwear that you wore before you started treatment.
  • Put on a clean pair of socks every day and whenever your socks get sweaty.
  • Alternate shoes.
  • Sprinkle antifungal powder in your shoes.
  • Keep your nails short.
  • Sanitize your nail clipper before using it.
  • Never share nail clippers, shoes, skates, towels, and other personal items.
  • Keep your feet clean and dry.
  • Moisturize dry skin.
  • If you get athlete’s foot, treat it right away.

Dermatologists like Dr. Amy Vaughan can also help treat conditions of the fingernails and toenails.

Risk factors for developing fungal nail infections include minor skin or nail injuries, disease or deformity of the nail, and wearing closed shoes. Fungal nail infections are most common in adults who use public water areas, like locker rooms and pools, and in people who perspire heavily. These infections are most common in the toenails, where shoes trap moisture and allow fungi to thrive.

Recognize the symptoms
Fungal nail infections often affect the color, shape, or thickness of the nail; they may also induce brittleness of nail, loosening or detachment, or crumbling of the outer edges of the nail.

Effective treatment
Prevention is the best measure for fungal nail infection. Keep your feet dry, wear shower shoes in public pools and showers, and do not wear close-toed shoes with wet feet. Nail infections are often difficult to treat, and usually require treatment over a long period of time.

Over-the-counter creams are available for the treatment of fungal nail infections, but are often ineffective. Prescription creams or oral medication is often required to eliminate the fungal infection and allow for the growth of healthy nails. Dr. Amy Vaughan and her staff can help determine which treatment method is best for you.